Winter boat show roundup

Posted on January 20th, 2010

Water Missions International will be on site at the 30th annual Charleston Boat Show to answer questions about its current relief efforts in Haiti.

“We will have a water purification unit on display at the boat show so people can see how the systems work. If they so choose, guests at the boat show may make donations toward Haiti disaster response and learn about opportunities to assist with the life saving work of WMI,” said Molly Greene, Founder of Water Missions International, in a statement.

The Charleston Boat Show opens Friday and runs through Sunday at the North Charleston Convention Center.

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The 43rd Annual Central Florida Boat Show runs March 5-7 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.

“Over the last 18 months, marine dealers have survived some of the most challenging times the recreational marine industry has ever seen,” said Roy Parker, president of the Central Florida Marine Trades Association and owner of Parker Boats, in a statement.

“With the economy now expanding, dealers in Central Florida can’t afford not to exhibit at this year’s Central Florida Boat Show. With more than 187,000 square feet of exhibit space, there’s no better area venue to meet with thousands of boating enthusiasts and prospective customers,” he added.

The Central Florida Boat Show annually attracts thousands of boating enthusiasts. This year’s show will feature the latest in 2010 model-year boats, accessories, marine electronics and more.

The Central Florida Marine Trades Association plans to promote the show through a comprehensive marketing and public relations effort promoting the fact that for anyone interested in buying a boat, this year’s show offers a historic opportunity to make a great deal.

The Marine Marketers of America is presenting a symposium titled: “The Great Media Debate: Where to Put Your Ad Dollars Now,” during its annual general members meeting at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 11 during the Miami International Boat Show.

Headlining the presentation are two senior publishing professionals with decades of experience in the recreational boating industry: Peter Janssen, editorial director of MotorBoating magazine and former publisher of Motor Boating & Sailing and James Causey, vice president of Dominion Media, a division of Dominion Enterprises that includes Soundings Trade Only, Soundings, Yachtworld.com, PassageMaker and Boats.com.

Moderated by MMA program producer and board member Michael Sciulla, himself a veteran media expert, the panel participants will debate the latest electronic, online and social media alternatives as well as whether there is any life left in print.

Also on the agenda is a 2009 association summary, including the official launch of the association’s pro bono “Marketing to Women” creative showcase. In addition, a new slate of officers and board members will be introduced and plans for the future announced.